CaRi-heart technology
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Pericardial aspiration
PERICARDIOCENTESIS
Pericardial aspiration is a procedure where fluid is drained from around the heart to restore normal heart function
What is pericardiocentesis?
Pericardial aspiration, also known as pericardiocentesis or a pericardial tap, removes potentially life-threatening fluid that can build up in the pericardium (the sac surrounding the heart).
This fluid may be tested for signs of infection or disease, including cancer.
Need to know
In a non-emergency setting, pericardial aspiration is done in a specialised cardiac facility known as a catheterisation laboratory. You will lie down on a table for the procedure and may be given a sedative to help you relax. Your consultant will then inject local anaesthetic under your ribs to numb the area over your heart. Next, they'll insert a needle under your ribs into the pericardial sac.
They may use an X-ray or echocardiogram to help see inside your chest as they guide the needle into position, before draining the fluid through a thin flexible tube (catheter). The procedure usually takes less than an hour.
Your consultant will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you have.
You may have a blood test, chest X-ray or other heart scan before the procedure to look for the cause of the excess fluid or check your heart rhythm. They may ask you to fast or avoid certain medications beforehand. Like all procedures, there may be some risks or side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.
You'll be monitored in hospital as you recover after the procedure. If the pericardial fluid was tested for signs of infection, blood or disease, your consultant will speak to you about the results. They will let you know if any further tests or treatment is needed. They'll also let you know when you can return home and get back to your usual routine.
Our Pericardial aspiration locations
The Wellington Hospital
8A Wellington Place NW8 9LE London
London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.